Amp6 Basic

I’ve decided to embark once again on an amplifier project. This one will go a little bit different than the last electronics project which was strictly a headphone amplifier. This one is a Class-T amplifier, based on a tripath chip. It comes in kit form, with a PCB, components, and jacks. The kit (an Amp6 Basic) was from 41hz.com audio, and I’ve already had the pleasure of building one kit (and hearing it) from my good friend Woody. It sounds incredible for its price and size. It’s slightly cheaper and better quality than the Sonic Impact T-amps which are sold commercially. It runs from a 12V power supply. Note I had to cut of the original tip from the PS and reattach a new one as the old tip was not correctly sized for the T-amp’s DC input jack.

Without further ado, I am providing pictures of my build as I get it completed. The eventual goal is to build and complete the kit, enclose the kit in a nice hardwood enclosure, and then build a set of full range driver speakers to listen to the amp. The speakers will also be custom built. More on that later (it’s a secret for now). Excuse the fuzzy pictures, as my camera is not able to do macro shots very well.

Update (June 10th, 2007): I’ve added the rest of the components, and run initial tests of the amp. It sounds fantastic, especially with my Athena speakers. For 10 watts, I have a pretty awesome sounding amp with good clarity and midrange. I also added a SPST switch for the sleep function (replacing the jumper directly on the board) and a bright blue LED. I’m happy with it so far. Now on to the enclosure for the amp…..

Update (June 16th, 2007): I’ve started (and basically finished) the Amp6 enclosure. Soft maple, walnut strips, and some sandeply plywood that I had left over. All 1/2″ materials. I’ve basically got the shell done and all the holes machined for the various connections. I coated the exterior with Tried and True Varnish Oil and I’ll be adding a coat or two of paste wax. The cover screws on using #6 square drive screws.

Update (June 17th, 2007): I’m done! It’s working, and sounds great. Looks good in its enclosure. Phew. Now on to the speakers.

Looking into the original commercial amp you posted and doing research around the web I found that Sonic Impact has switched the look of the product, but also switched to a new more powerful chip… 2x the output, same quality. Here is the direct link to manufacturer site with specs: http://www.si5.com/products.php?pID=4046

That’s why I ended up building my own from a kit, as I had more control over the quality and sound. Coupled with the Zigmahornet speakers I built, this amp sounds much better than the Sonic Impact amps. I don’t doubt they’ve increased the power output, but if you have an efficient pair of speakers, you won’t find it necessary for more power. The power supply also has a lot to do with it as well. Besides, I wanted to do a custom case and case work, so the kit was a much better option than buying a commercial kit and reboxing it.

Hi. I found your website cruising for info on the Zigmahornet speaker. Am considering getting a pair of the new Merrill 4.5″ drivers and having Zigma cabinets built for them. Do you build Zigma cabinets for sale? Thanks and look forward to your reply.

Thanks for your interest. I don’t build them for a living. I just made this stuff for myself, and a pair for a friend who bought the Fostex speakers for me. They aren’t difficult to build, you just need to have the right equipment and time. With me, it’s having the time to build them on a mass production basis. They take a lot of time.